The Best Tarp Systems for Agricultural Trucks and Trailers

In the agriculture industry, the material being hauled is critical to the business’s core operations. The safe transportation of raw products from where they are produced to different production centers involves specialized equipment at each stage of the process. In the case of farm payloads, a trusted tarping system will save time and increasing safety without sacrificing the quality of service. In this article, we’ll explore how to select a tarping system for your agricultural truck or trailer.

Common Considerations

Agricultural vehicles come in many sizes and shapes ranging from grain wagons, carts and trailers to standard dump or silage trucks. The coordinating tarping systems are available with a variety features and functions depending on your needs. Below are some considerations you should evaluate when deciding on the right tarping system for your agricultural needs.  

• Load Type: This is by far the most important consideration. What type of commodity are you hauling? Are you hauling grain or feed that is sensitive to moisture? Does the material need to remain at a specific temperature?
• Weather Conditions: The weather conditions during harvest season can vary drastically and will impact the type of tarping system you select. Do you experience long, rainy seasons? Do you experience windy conditions?
• Safety: Hauling to and from remote farm fields creates unique scenarios for drivers. Features such as remote operation allow for safe tarping from either the cab or from a 360-degree walkaround position.
• Power Conversions & Retrofits: Retrofitting a crank system can improve safety and efficiency.
• Aesthetics: Do you care about aesthetics and what the tarp and tarping system look like on the truck or trailer?

Make a list of your requirements. Identify what is working with your current solution and what needs improvement. The best tarp manufacturers offer easy access to digital guides and knowledgeable service representatives to help you measure and select the right system for you. 

Common Tarping Systems for Agricultural Trucks and Trailers

The best tarping systems for agricultural hauling will vary on the rig setup and application. Below are the two most common tarping systems available for agricultural trucks and trailer haulers. Keep in mind your business’s specific considerations when evaluating each tarping system.

Flip Arm Systems

The flip arm system is by far one of the most versatile systems available. Haulers opt for flip arm systems because of their ability to take on different applications in the field.

Arm-style tarp solutions are designed to fit most industry standard dump or silage trucks and trailers, but you’ll want to evaluate system components carefully. A quality motor will protect against premature wear out, while durable arm construction provides strength and contributes to a professional appearance. Longer trailers – up to 53 feet – might consider our Super Duty Series which is engineered for more demanding loads and come pre-packaged with selected pre-assembled components.

Side Lock Down Systems

Grain trailer tarping is demanding and requires a high-quality tarping system, which is why many haulers turn to a side to side lock down system for their end dump, side dump and live bottom trailers. These systems provide complete coverage to keep loads dry or maintain a specific temperature range. These systems are also ideal for harsh and windy weather conditions. Look for a high-quality motor and wireless controls for safe tarping operations.

Tarping Material

The tarping material is one of the most important components of your system and your selection will be determined primarily by what and where you are hauling. Most drivers moving farm payloads will opt for heavy-duty or premium vinyl tarps that offer waterproofing capabilities.

No matter what system you evaluate, look for a strong manufacturer’s warranty and the ability to easily replace parts and components. Remember that working with a trusted manufacturer or dealer helps reduce repair labor and downtime.

Tarping Solutions for Agricultural Hauling

Finding the right tarping system for your agricultural truck and trailer is imperative to ensuring productivity. Not all tarping systems are manufactured at the same level of quality, so buyers should carefully consider which system best suits their specific needs. After carefully considering your business operations, finding the right system will be an investment that will produce benefits for many years to come.

Agricultural consultations and on-site services for tarp and safety solutions are available through Roll-Rite's Safe Fleet Midwest Service Center. You may contact our experts directly for quotes or more information